Donor gives $100,000 for English scholarships

KOKOMO, Ind. – For the next five years, an English major at Indiana University Kokomo will receive $20,000 each academic year through a scholarship fund established by an anonymous donor.

Cameron Huffman, a senior majoring in English and New Media Communication, is the first to receive this scholarship, which was awarded to a student with outstanding future potential.

"I am going to do my best to earn this and live up to the expectations set for me," Huffman said, who resides in Kokomo. "It's something I hope to provide for someone else someday."

Huffman, a full-time student, was selected from a pool of four applicants. The scholarship, known as The Phoenix Prize in English, recognizes, supports, and encourages an undergraduate student not only for potential, but also is based on merit and academic achievement.

The annual award of $20,000 will cover all costs of attending IU Kokomo for the fall and spring semesters. Any unused funds will be refunded to the student for other expenses.

"This gift supports our mission to provide academic excellence and ensure student success," said IU Kokomo Chancellor Michael Harris. "I am deeply grateful for the donation, and have every confidence that Cameron Huffman, as the first recipient, will make this donor proud."

Huffman plans to further his education at IU School of Law-Indianapolis after he graduates in May.

"It will all go back to my education – however I can maximize it the most," Huffman said. "It's encouraging and humbling."

Ann Cameron, coordinator of English and associate professor of English, said Huffman was selected because of his commitment to his future goals.

"Cameron impressed us with his strong academic record and his history of leadership and innovation," Ann Cameron said. "Given his mature and focused sense of commitment to his future goals, he will undoubtedly continue to excel in his intention to pursue a career in law and to become a strong public policy advocate in health care reform, an area where he is already making a difference."

In addition to an 18-credit hour load this semester, Huffman also works 32 hours each week at St. Joseph Hospital.

"We believe that this substantial scholarship will reward our outstanding students and help showcase the high quality of the English program at IU Kokomo," Ann Cameron said.